But the old pawnbroker was fascinated by the sparkling bauble. He could not make up his mind to give it up. By fair means or foul he must possess it. He advanced his bid to twelve, fourteen, fifteen dollars, but Paul shook his head resolutely. He had made up his mind to carry it to Ball & Black's, or some other first-class jewelers, and ascertain whether it was a real diamond or not, and if so to obtain an estimate of its value.
“I've changed my mind,” he said. “I'll keep the ring. Just give it back to me.”
CHAPTER XVI
THE JEWELER'S PRICE
But to give it back was not Eliakim's intention. Should he buy it at twenty dollars, he would make at least two hundred, and such bargains were not to be had every day. He decided to give Paul his price.
“I will give you twenty dollars,” he said; “but it is more than the ring is worth.”
“I have concluded not to take twenty dollars,” said Paul. “You may give it back.”
“You agreed to take twenty dollars,” said Eliakim, angrily.
“That was when I first came in. You said you wouldn't give it.”